Every day we hear of another disaster in the financial markets. We hear that the economy is in a mess and many of us are already seeing the negative impact on our purses – more expensive food, fuel and household energy. So how can we justify spending money on clothes this season? For tips on how to look good in the latest fashions whilst not breaking the bank, read on…

Prioritise

Decide what your priorities are this season. Do you really need new clothes or would a drastic new haircut make more of an impact? Do you really need your nails/eyebrows done once a month or could you save the money for clothes and learn to do them yourself?

Wardrobe audit

Check through your wardrobe to see what you actually need so that you can go shopping with a list and avoid impulse buys. If you have trousers, skirts or suits that are in perfectly good condition, continue to wear them with updated tops and accessories. You really don't need to spend a huge amount to create a capsule wardrobe. If you find it difficult to mix and match items a colour analysis could help.

Shop around

If you naturally find yourself in the "higher end" of the high street and fall in love with a dress/pair of boots that you really can't afford visit some of the stores you don't usually venture into and see if you can find something similar with a cheaper price tag - you may be surprised!

Take advantage of the sales

Even if you're not usually a "sales shopper" you will find that the credit crunch means earlier and more frequent sales. You will be able to get good quality investment pieces (trousers, skirts, jackets, coats) which will last quite a few seasons for reasonable prices. These can be mixed with cheaper, more fashionable tops and accessories to keep them up to date. Remember though, a bargain is only a bargain if you need it. Don't buy items that don't suit you or that you won't wear just because they're cheap.

Consider your lifestyle

When you consider buying an item ask yourself when and where you would wear it. If it doesn't fit in with your lifestyle leave it in the shop. There is no point spending money on clothes you'll have no occasion to wear however gorgeous they may be!

Look after your clothes

Look after your clothes properly and they will last much longer. Always consult the label before washing and abide by the instructions. Invest in some good quality wooden hangers for your trousers and jackets and some with pegs for your skirts. Hang knitwear and delicates on padded hangers. Use shoe trees for storing your shoes. Rest your clothes and shoes between wearing. Even if an item is not dirty, don't wear the same clothes or shoes two days running - they will have absorbed moisture and a rest will do them good.

Don't skimp on make-up

Make-up makes us all look and feel better. It has a sell-by-date and will go off so trying to last it out for years on end is false economy. However, buying lots of products without trying them on your face first can also be a waste of money. Trying lipstick, for example, on your hand is no good as it will look completely different on you lips. If in doubt, a good image consultant can help you achieve a great make-up look using only the products you really need and will apply it so that you can see if you like it before you buy anything.

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